Friedrich Merz wins German elections as CDU leader faces coalition challenges

Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), won Germany's elections, adopting a tough stance on migration. The far-Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) surged to second place, marking a historic shift in opposition dynamics. Merz must now form a coalition, likely with the centre-Left Social Democrats (SPD), to secure a majority. However, differences on defense and migration policies may complicate negotiations. The SPD suffered its worst electoral result, with just 16 percent of the vote. Merz aims to increase defense spending and may seek to change Germany's approach to military support in Europe. He also proposed strict measures on illegal migration, which could challenge EU regulations.